The Muslim Women's Association of Bakersfield, in partnership with the California State University, Bakersfield American Muslim Student Association is inviting the public to a traditional Ramadan "Iftar," or fast-breaking dinner, in the Stockdale Room inside the Runner Cafeteria on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. The free event is being held as a way to reach out to the larger Bakersfield community and to share dinner and dialogue with members of all faiths.

"We are inviting our neighbors, co-workers and community leaders to this dinner to promote friendship, openness and communication with the Muslims in Bakersfield," said Majida Shehadeh, a member of MWAB. "People of faith must lead the way to deepening mutual respect and must learn to work together more effectively for social justice."

Ramadan is the month on the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims fast from food and drink from the break of dawn to sunset. To Muslims worldwide, Ramadan serves as a season of spiritual renewal and gratitude for the bounties bestowed on all human beings, Shehadeh said. It is a month in which families become closer, communities strengthen their foundations and individuals reaffirm their spiritual roots, she added. Fasting is one of the "five pillars" of the Islamic faith. Shehadeh explained the end of Ramadan will be marked by communal prayers called "Eid ul-Fitr," or Feast of the Fast-Breaking on or around Oct. 24.